Nowadays, new homes in Australia must meet certain energy efficiency standards. However, many home builders in Melbourne, Ballarat, and Geelong are going above and beyond these requirements by implementing eco-friendly building solutions.
Here are 5 important things to consider when planning to build a green home:
1. Building a green home is all about sustainability, which is crucial for future generations. Start by selecting the right location, ideally close to amenities, services, and your workplace, to reduce commuting needs. You might end up with a smaller property due to higher land costs, but a well-designed home doesn’t need to be large. If you’re not into city living, consider sustainable transportation options like biking.
2. How your home is designed to sit on the land matters a lot. Take advantage of natural views, the land’s shape, and resources. Building on a slope can be cost-effective if designed properly, and incorporating passive solar design can harness breezes and sunlight to maintain a comfortable temperature naturally, minimizing the need for artificial cooling and heating.
3. Think about materials efficiency in your design. For instance, a roof that accommodates solar panels now or in the future is a good idea. An asymmetrical gabled or saltbox roof can maximize sun exposure.
4. Not all building materials are sustainably produced, so research is needed to identify truly green products. Aim for materials with strong eco-friendly attributes, understanding that perfect solutions are rare and there will be trade-offs.
5. Consider your energy and water requirements based on the local climate. Use suitable materials to mitigate risks like flooding. To minimize construction waste, opt for simple designs such as rectangular shapes. Contemporary modular homes are an excellent example of eco-friendly construction that also looks great. Detailed plans and diagrams help reduce over-engineering and material waste, and using high-quality materials means fewer replacements over time.
When you’re planning your green home, keep these tips in mind to get started on the right foot!
